Early indications from commercial experience on 2,000 hectares of combinable crops in 2012/13 is that Dow AgroSciences’ nitrification inhibitor N-LOCK (based on nitrapyrin) has achieved significant yield benefits or quality benefits on at least 40% of treated crop.

Dow AgroSciences introduced pilot use of N-LOCK on winter and spring cereals, as well as oilseed rape, across key arable areas of the UK. The product has proved effective elsewhere in the world, for instance, the state of Illinois is paying farmers to apply nitrapyrin to reduce nitrate leaching into watercourses. Dow AgroSciences aims to provide UK agriculture with an effective tool to minimise Nitrogen ( N) losses, boost N efficiency and optimise yields.

“N-LOCK works by slowing down nitrification of ammonium N, to nitrate N,” explains Dow AgroSciences Tim Scott. “Ammonium N is a key N source for plant and grain production; whereas nitrate N is not so stable and is prone to leaching. In addition, when heavy rain occurs it can denitrify to nitrogenous gases that are lost to the atmosphere adding to agriculture’s greenhouse gas emissions. Thus, we believe the product has the potential to support both aspects of the drive for sustainable intensification.”

Data collection and analysis continues from the 2013 pilot. Data analysed so far shows significant responses (5-20%) in yield or quality. There are no instances of a detrimental effect from N-LOCK use.

Dow is working with advisers to devise the best ways to optimise use of this new technology.

“The aim is to help farmers apply N for optimum yields, and increase its efficiency. Where the appropriate amount of N is applied, N-Lock will protect against losses to give the best opportunity to meet yield and quality targets,” said Andy Bailey, Principal Biologist at Dow AgroSciences. 

“Where N is over supplied – and thus not a limiting factor – a farmer would not expect yield benefit but would still get the environmental benefits. “

Mr Bailey points out that Dow AgroSciences will be sharing the findings from 2013, ‘warts and all’ with the industry to identify the best options for N-LOCK in the UK. 

In other countries, including France, Germany and Poland, N-LOCK has proven itself effective. Many agencies, including the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change have identified nitrification inhibitors like Nitrapyrin as effective ways of reducing nitrous oxide emissions.